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Hello from Alaska

Hello all,
I am new at beekeeping this year, I started out with a 5 pound package of Italians and they have not dissappointed me. It is fascinating to sit with my 7 year old son and watch the bees work. I am left to wonder why didn't I discover this earlier? I am interested in overwintering and raising queens in Alaska to cut down on the expense of buying package bees every year. If anyone has any input please let me know.

Re: Hello from Alaska

Welcome to the forum from the other end of the country! I know a number of people over winter bees in AK. I believe there are a few on here from time to time. Nice to hear your son is intersted as well! Good Luck!

Re: Hello from Alaska

Welcome!

My understanding is that it is pretty difficult to winter bees in Alaska due to long time they spend inside the hive over winter and nosema/dysentry is the problem. If you do get the occassional +50F days, the bees will take short cleansing flights.

There's no harm in trying to winter them. Treat them for Nosema with Fumigilin in the fall, make sure there is 175 lbs of honey in the hive, insulate the hives, control the varroa mites, and provide minimal but adequate(exhaust moisture given off by bees consuming honey) ventilation.

Carniolans may be a better breed as they originated from a colder climate and winter with a smaller population. Hence, consume considerably less honey over winter.

If you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got!